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Will haplotype maps be useful for finding genes?

Molecular Psychiatry volume 9, pages 227–236 (2004)Cite this article

Abstract

From its introduction into the literature, the idea of haplotype map-based linkage disequilibrium (LD) studies has been the subject of disputes. These queries involve the extent to which the haplotype blocks exist, the validity of fundamental concepts such as the recombination hotspot, and the application of this idea in the form of the HapMap project. In this article, we review the relevant literature to evaluate the potential importance of haplotype maps for psychiatric genetics. We first take a closer look at the nature of haplotype blocks and then address the impact of block definitions and methodological factors, such as single-nucleotide polymorphism density and sample size, on findings from haplotype block studies. After distinguishing between two types of haplotype map-based LD studies, we discuss the importance of the recombination hotspot and the nature of the disease mutations affecting complex traits. In the final section, we summarize our main conclusions and comment on the usefulness of haplotype maps for finding genes.

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Acknowledgements

EvdO was supported in part by grants from the US National Institute of Mental Health (MH065320) and NARSAD.

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  1. Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Medical College of Virginia of Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA

    E J C G van den Oord & B M Neale

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Correspondence to E J C G van den Oord.

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van den Oord, E., Neale, B. Will haplotype maps be useful for finding genes?. Mol Psychiatry 9, 227–236 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.mp.4001449

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